December 14, 2013

Twelve individuals from area churches attended the inaugural Valley Youth Workers Network meeting held Dec. 2 at Starkdale Presbyterian Church in Steubenville.

"There was lively discussion about different ways to reach the youth of the area with the gospel of Jesus Christ," said Pastor Bobbyjon Bauman, Starkdale Church pastor of youth and young families.

The evening included Daryle Griffin from the Brightway Center in Smithfield sharing about his ministry with area youth and the group deciding to meet on a monthly basis and to elect officers.

Also discussed was an upcoming event, recruiting inspirational speaker Reggie Dabbs who will speak April 6-8 with community youth at Steubenville High School, Indian Creek, Wells Academy, Harding Middle School and Starkdale church. He also will be speaking at three evening rallies.

Dabbs addresses 2.5 million students per year and is known as one of, if not the most, prolific youth speakers today, according to Bauman.

"The group also decided to conduct two valleywide youth rallies per year, primarily conducted by the youth themselves who would lead the worship, perform skits, put on games and then be followed by an inspirational speaker," Bauman said.

The first rally will be held April 27.

The group also is planning on all of the youth groups getting together for community service days with one in the fall and one in the spring.

The group will continue to meet at Starkdale church with the next meeting slated for Feb. 4 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. All area youth leaders and workers are encouraged to attend.

Youth worker Kylee Paris from Starkdale said, "I am excited to see what God is going to do in our community to bring revival to our area (through our youth). I think this is the start of something great."